- TEAM CENTRA -
Centra owner Damian O’Keefe with his daughter, Venue Manager Heidi Vallance
"The family business, which lovingly transfers into the way they treat their customers is evident, with smiles never leaving diners' faces" - gt magazine, June 21-
HEIDI VALLANCE
VENUE MANAGER
You could say Heidi has hospitality in her bones. Having grown up with her family heavily involved with various Hospitality venues, Heidi now joins her father, Damien O’Keefe at Centra. Always kind and encouraging, Heidi is passionate about improving the Centra experience and prides herself on providing a welcoming family atmosphere for her guests and team.
MASSIMO ROVATTI
HEAD CHEF
Born and trained in Italy, Massimo is an absolute wealth of knowledge on all things Italian cuisine. Before joining Centra two years ago he worked in Italy, Melbourne, Sorrento and on the Gold Coast. He is passionate about creating new exciting menus for our guests which offer something unique to the Geelong community.
JACOB MCPHERSON
SOUS CHEF
Jacob (Jake) comes from regional Victoria and has been with Centra for a year. With a solid history cheffing in pubs, he is enjoying collaborating with Massimo, and learning to prepare authentic Italian dishes such as making fresh pasta. Jake loves creating his own recipes and exploring new cooking techniques.
CAM MOORE
SOMMELIER
With a Diploma from Wine, Spirit & Education Trust and industry experience spanning 25 years – Cam is passionate and highly knowledgable about all things wine (even his golden retriever is named Chardy!). Cam regularly hosts private wine dinners as well as assisting our guests in the restaurant. Instrumental in the creation of our new retail space, he is onsite to offer his expertise and assist you finding your perfect drop.
LUCY BUFALINO
RESTAURANT MANAGER
Born in Sicily, Lucy has 14 years of hospitality experience – gained in both Italy and Australia. A trained Sommelier, (with a Diploma from A.I.S Italian Association Sommelier) and Barista, Lucy worked in Sicily, Syracuse, Melbourne and regional Victoria before joining Centra in 2019. Always smiling, Lucy loves to assist her guests and is passionate about their Centra experience.
JAMES BAKER
BAR MANAGER
James (Jimmy) has been with Centra for six years. Even though he doesn’t drink himself (yes you read that correctly!) he is highly knowledgeable, passionate and loves creating new cocktails. Finding the perfect drink for our guests based on their tastes is what he prides himself on. We highly recommend you check out his latest range of Gin & Jam cocktails – they are absolutely delicious!
EMILY CARROLAN
FUNCTION MANAGER
With over a decade of experience in hospitality, Emily has been part of the Centra family for five years. She loves to assist guests plan and execute their perfect event and enjoys the vibe and fast pace of working in functions. Emily prides herself on ensuring Centra function guests leave happy.
KATE GRAY
MIXOLOGIST
With 16 years experience, a Diploma in Mixology from Swinburne University and Level 5 Mixology from Brighton University in the UK, Kate is highly knowledgeable and passionate about spirits. She enjoys creating infusions and cocktails and loves that there’s always something new to learn and explore in the world of mixology. Look out for her Spirit Masterclasses coming soon.